Implementation of evidence-based practice in the current healthcare climate will facilitate professionalism and promote the discipline of nursing. This Capstone Project was designed to create a standard protocol with current evidence-based clinical practice guidelines in the area of breast cancer education and prevention in a vulnerable population. According to the American Cancer Society, breast cancer is a worldwide disease that has impact on individuals and families in multiple areas including health, finances, loss of productivity and self esteem. The Capstone Project director implemented an evidence-based system change to investigate the multifactor concerns of breast cancer in a Community Health Center. The Capstone Project successfully enhanced the standard of care for female patients concerning breast cancer education, screening and prevention through an evidence-based model of care created by Rosswurm and Larrabee at a local Community Clinic. Additionally, Kotter’s well built business model was incorporated through the aspect of a change in the organization to promote the successful integration of the evidence-based system change demonstrated by the staff’s willingness to accept the standard protocol. Furthermore, significant to the implementation of the standard protocol was the inclusion of the Health Promotion Model by Pender that served as an impetus for education and promoting health for the patient. Two main areas were involved in the system change for the Capstone Project. First to educate the staff and create a team approach for promotion and standardization of evidence-based practice to care for underserved women concerning breast cancer awareness and prevention, and second to improve patient adherence to evidence-based current Clinical Practice Guidelines for breast cancer prevention. Results of the Capstone Project showed improved adherence to the evidence-based Clinical Practice Guidelines presented by the National Guideline Clearinghouse concerning breast cancer prevention and screening.
